ACUPUNCTURE & ORIENTAL MEDICAL TREATMENTS
WHAT TO EXPECT
How long are treatments?
Your first visit is will be 1 to 1-1/2 hours. Follow up visits are usually one hour or less.
What should I wear?
Loose fitting, comfortable clothing is preferred.
Should I eat before my visit?
Yes, acupuncture is best received when you have eaten (but not over-eaten). Avoid caffeine before your visit, and avoid brushing your tongue.
Should I exercise before or after my treatment?
It is best to plan your exercise before your acupuncture treatment. This will allow the treatment to work optimally.
Is it OK to receive massage or chiropractic on the same day as acupuncture?
Yes, these modalities are both best before an acupuncture treatment.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Some people are more sensitive than others however, usually, you feel very little but at times one feels a slight prick of the needle (not at all like the prick of an injection needle which is hollow tube and much larger in diameter) Some points in large muscular areas produce a gentle ache, which subsides within moments. NOTE: sensation on some points is considered beneficial and therapeutic.
Will insurance cover my treatments?
Some do, check with your insurance provider to find out if they cover acupuncture, and how many visits you are allotted per year. Payment would be due at the time of the visit, and you will be provided with a superbill to submit to your insurance for reimbursement.
What happens at the beginning?
At the beginning of your session, you will be asked about what brought you there, when the issue started, and other related questions, then asked a series of questions relating to your body and how it functions (energy, sleep patterns, digestion and elimination, feelings of hot or cold, pain quality i.e. stabbing, achey, etc., menstruation if appropriate, and a few others), your Chinese Pulses will be taken (pulses are located on both wrists) and your tongue will be observed (the only time it is really ok to stick your tongue out at someone :)
Acupuncture treatments are usually best when done in a series, in a way it is retraining/reminding the body to function in a balanced manner and just like a process of training a muscle, once a month doesn't usually do much. Some people say you should invest in 6 visits to see results, however some people find some relief after only a few visits, everyone is different of course. Once the results you were looking for have been achieved, you will not need further treatments unless you have another issue. It is always best to get what we call a Tune Up, which is usually done at the change of the season, to keep your system running smoothly.
Patricia J. Ahner, A.P.
Call or email for an appointment today: ph. 954-600-3878email: pahner@healingx.org
~with offices in Dania Beach, Plantation, Downtown Miami~
Patricia J Ahner, Acupuncturist